Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, 83, who reached Shillong via Guwahati in the morning, collapsed during a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management-Shillong (IIM-S) around 6:30 pm.

Former president and Bharat Ratna APJ Abdul Kalam died on Monday after collapsing during a lecture in Shillong.

Kalam, 83, who reached Shillong via Guwahati in the morning, collapsed during a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management-Shillong (IIM-S) around 6:30 pm and rushed to the Bethany Hospital. Doctors at the hospital said he was brought dead around 7pm.

Narendara Modi, Prime Minister of India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he has lost a "marg darshak" who took India to new heights in the field of science and technology.

"He was a great scientist who contributed immensely in the filed of science and technology as well as space. I have lost a marg darshark.

"He was a source of inspiration for the whole country, particularly the youth. Even in his last days, he remained connected," Modi said.

Pranab Mukherjee, President of India

"Dr Kalam was a People's President during his lifetime and will remain so even after death."

Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra chief minister

"Kalam sahab taught us to dream big & made us believe that dreams can come true. He lead us on the path of making India a Super Power. He was the first person in 21st century to realise the power of our demographic dividend & opportunities created by it."

Rahul Gandhi, Congress vice president

"A man of many parts-he won over the hearts and minds of a nation with his warmth and wisdom."

Sachin Tendulkar

"The nation mourns the loss of a great person. Former President of India, a renowned scientist, an inspiration to all, a terrific human being..RIP Abdul Kalam."

Bishan Singh Bedi, Former cricket captain

"Arguably India's Greatest President APJ Abdul Kalam moves on ever so quietly..just the way he lived,with utmost Simplicity & Humility!!"

AR Rahman, music composer

"The country lost an inspiring mind. Dr Kalam, when you became the President, you gave the word 'hope' a new meaning for Indians...

"Today, we have lost a great leader who inspired our young minds to feel that we live in the greatest nation on earth and that each one of them can achieve great things... May the creator lead you to heaven," Rahman posted on his Facebook page.